Summer Hanson MSW, LCSW

As an experienced counselor, my focus is to create a safe and supportive environment where you feel validated and heard. Through a variety of techniques, I will support you to explore thoughts, feelings, and behaviors related to anxiety. This therapeutic relationship is built on trust and compassion to empower you to overcome challenges.

If you are experiencing the symptoms of PTSD, know you are in the right place, as I have 15 years of experience providing trauma based therapy. I can assist you to develop healthier coping skills, relieve anxiety, and decrease the symptoms of untreated trauma. PTSD is not a life sentence, hope and healing are possible.

I understand the impact that depression may have on you and your family. I am committed to providing expert care and support to assist you in overcoming this condition. With my holistic approach to treatment, I can offer a path to healing and hope for a brighter future.

The goal of ACT is to create a rich and meaningful life, while accepting the pain that inevitably goes with it. “ACT” is a good abbreviation, because this therapy is about taking effective action guided by our deepest values and in which we are fully present and engaged. It is only through mindful action that we can create a meaningful life. This therapy is well suited to treat depression, anxiety, and as a precursor to trauma focused therapy, when needed.

In CBT we will break problems down into smaller pieces to give detailed attention to each part. This technique will assist in disrupting negative, automatic thoughts, and replacing them with more helpful ones and then looking at choices in our responses. The overall goal is to learn the skill of breaking down negative thought patterns or programming and shifting them into a more helpful approach to handling daily life.

In Cognitive processing therapy (CPT) we will reduce symptoms of PTSD that have developed after experiencing a traumatic event or events, including child abuse, combat, rape and natural disasters. CPT will assist you to learn how to challenge and modify life limiting beliefs related to the trauma, specifically in the areas of safety, trust, self-esteem, intimacy, and control. This treatment is strongly recommended for the treatment of PTSD.